Top Secret Instrumentation Engineer

Our client, located in Yuma, AZ, is currently in need of a Top Secret cleared Instrumentation Engineer for a 6 month contract. The consultant will also need to go through the SAP process. The consultant will work 100% onsite in Yuma, AZ in support of a mission-critical flight test team supporting flight test operations. As an Instrumentation Technician, you will play a hands-on role in keeping advanced airborne data acquisition systems mission-ready for daily test sorties on fighter aircraft.

Working directly on the flight line, you will perform preflight inspections, configure data recorders, recover postflight media, and troubleshoot instrumentation issues.

Key Responsibilities

• Daily Test Mission Support
  - Preflight
  • Coordinate test aircraft access with squadron maintenance teams.
  • Conduct visual inspections of the data acquisition system and associated harnesses.
  • Load media into data recorders and verify proper mounting.
  • Confirm data recorder bus link status is active and ready for flight.
• Daily Test Mission Support
  - Postflight
  • Recover recorded media from aircraft and deliver it to the data processing team.
  • Ensure the data system is properly powered down after each sortie.
• Data System Maintenance
  • Notify the Operations Engineer of anomalies identified during debriefs or post-flight inspections.
  • Perform corrective actions on open issues per Operations Engineer disposition.
  • Maintain accurate records of system status, modifications, and repairs.
• Logistics & Lab Support
  • Provide support for instrumentation logistics activities (parts, shipments, inventory).
  • Support lab operations, including bench testing, configuration, and equipment preparation.

Required Skills:

• U.S. Citizenship with an active Top Secret (TS/SCI) DoD security clearance, eligible for Special Access Program (SAP) read-in.
• Technical background in electronics, avionics, instrumentation, or a closely related field.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and system specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and disciplined documentation practices.
• Ability to work on the flight line in an outdoor environment, including occasional lifting and extended periods standing.
• Willingness to support very infrequent travel as required by mission needs.

Desired

Skills:

• Hands-on experience with USAF flight test instrumentation on platforms such as F-35, F-22, F-15E, or F-16.
• Working knowledge of military maintenance systems such as the Integrated Maintenance Data System (IMDS).
• Experience with bus-based data acquisition systems (e.g., MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, Ethernet-based telemetry).
• Demonstrates initiative, sound judgment, and strong communication skills when coordinating across maintenance, engineering, and operations teams.
• Comfortable working in a secure, mission-driven environment with shifting priorities.

Clear Bridge Technology Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We offer excellent benefits and compensation packages.
The expected hourly rate range for this role is: $50 - 70 per hour
The posted range is an estimate, the actual compensation offer will be based on the candidate's experience, skills, qualifications and will be in line with internal equity.